Running and Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is caused by reduced density of the bone. The bones become abnormally porous and prone to compression. Individuals affected with osteoporosis suffer from weak and fragile bones. They may also experience frequent fractures. The bone is made up of collagen, calcium and protein which give the bones their strength. Bones affected by osteoporosis can fracture easily even with minor trauma. These fractures may occur as cracks or as a collapse of the bone. The areas that are most prone to fractures include the ribs, waist, wrists and spine. However, osteoporosis can contribute to fractures of any skeletal bone.

Some individuals may be affected with osteoporosis without even being aware of it. This is because the disorder does not lead to any symptoms until a fracture occurs. Also, some osteoporosis related fractures may remain undetected for many years because they do not cause any symptoms. The main symptom of osteoporotic fractures is pain. The area of pain depends upon the site of the fracture. Osteoporosis affects a large number of people and has become a major health concern. Doctors often recommend resistance training to improve bone mineral density and to prevent loss of it. However many studies that have examined the link between running and osteoporosis, have concluded that that all high impact activities like running have a beneficial effect on bone mineral density. This effect is believed to be slightly greater than that caused by resistance training.

Running is also known to delay the ageing process. People who run on a regular basis experience less muscle and bone loss during ageing compared to people who do not run. The bones respond to the physical demands placed on the body. As these demands increase, the bones become stronger. Individuals who lead largely sedentary lifestyles do not place any physical demands on their bones and hence are likely to experience weakening of the bones. This makes them prone to bone disorders such as osteoporosis as they age. Those who run regularly are also working out their muscles and this stimulates the bones to stay strong even as the body ages. Many doctors recommend running as a form of exercise to those affected with osteoporosis. Such people must work with their physical therapists or doctors to draw up an exercise regimen that will improve bone health without elevating the risk of stress and fractures. Any exercise that would place excessive strain on the joints and bones must be avoided.